Termales del Ruiz
A magical mountain retreat with natural thermal waters, abundant hummingbirds, and breathtaking views of Nevado del Ruiz.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxation
Termales del Ruiz
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magical mountain retreat with natural thermal waters, abundant hummingbirds, and breathtaking views of Nevado del Ruiz.
"This place is amazing and could easily be a 5/5. The property is INCREDIBLE, it’s so magical."
🚗 Car is Key
Public transport is scarce. Renting a car or joining a tour is best for reaching Termales del Ruiz.
🏨 Guest-Exclusive Pools
For the most scenic thermal pools, book a stay at the hotel. Day passes have limitations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Thermal Pools
Various locations within the property
Soak in naturally heated waters with stunning mountain vistas. A truly relaxing experience.
Hummingbird Trails
Designated walking paths
Wander through lush trails and witness a dazzling array of hummingbirds in their natural habitat.
Nevado del Ruiz Views
Overlooks and viewpoints
Marvel at the majestic Nevado del Ruiz volcano, a breathtaking backdrop to your stay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: A Scenic, Remote Journey
Booking & Access: Plan Ahead for Peak Experiences
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car is Key
Public transport is scarce. Renting a car or joining a tour is best for reaching Termales del Ruiz.
🏨 Guest-Exclusive Pools
For the most scenic thermal pools, book a stay at the hotel. Day passes have limitations.
🐦 Birdwatching Paradise
Don't miss the hummingbird trails! Bring binoculars for an even better experience.
💰 Day Pass Value
Day passes can be around $50,000-$70,000 COP, often including pool access and trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car is Key
Public transport is scarce. Renting a car or joining a tour is best for reaching Termales del Ruiz.
🏨 Guest-Exclusive Pools
For the most scenic thermal pools, book a stay at the hotel. Day passes have limitations.
🐦 Birdwatching Paradise
Don't miss the hummingbird trails! Bring binoculars for an even better experience.
💰 Day Pass Value
Day passes can be around $50,000-$70,000 COP, often including pool access and trails.
📱 Booking Quirks
WhatsApp booking can be slow. Try calling directly or booking through platforms if you encounter issues.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Termales del Ruiz offers a magical, fairy-tale-like experience with stunning natural beauty, incredible thermal waters, and abundant wildlife, particularly hummingbirds. While the property is breathtaking, some guests note that the hotel and staff can feel overwhelmed, leading to minor service inconsistencies and small room sizes. Despite these points, the delicious food and unique setting make it a highly recommended destination for relaxation and nature lovers.
"This hotel is difficult to define. It is in a superb location, the views and surroundings are marvelous. Although the bed was very comfortable the size of the room is extremely small, there is no room to unpack your staff for one night and the worst is the bathroom. The bathrooms are a horror hole. They are extremely small, the floor made of raw stones constantly wet and the shower hardly fits a person. We do not recommend to go to this hotel. There are other better options for thermal waters."
Alejandro Rojas
"We had such a beautiful stay, it’s a hard place to get to but it’s soooo worth it, the way there the road and view is beautiful. The pools are amazing, the room we had was really nice and comfy, the floors are warm. The customer service is incredible; they were attentive and helpful. Of course you need to go to El Parque de Los Nevados if you are driving check your plate because entry changes for pair and odd plates every week."
Bella Grisales
"This place is amazing and could easily be a 5/5. However, there were several issues that dampened our experience. We stayed 3 days 2 nights. Overall, the property is incredible but the hotel and its staff sometimes seem overwhelmed. This can easily be fixed and we hope they do because it’s truly an amazing place.
The good:
- the property is INCREDIBLE, it’s so magical. From the colibríes and bird watching, to the termales, to the beautiful view of Manizales, it was surreal
- tours with Martin are an absolute highlight. He is a knowledgeable and kind guide. We learned so much.
- we went on weekdays during low season and after checkout we basically had the termales to ourselves. It was so relaxing.
- food was delicious!
- the bed was huge and so comfortable.
The bad:
- There was REALLY loud construction below our room and near the restaurant and it was impossible to relax in the room between 9:30AM-4:30 PM. We were mainly out at the tours and in the termales but it was still so bothersome to not be able to enjoy our room (video attached). We asked for a discount due to the inconvenience but they couldn’t give us anything because we had booked through Booking.com. The only reason why we didn’t book with them directly it’s because it was quite challenging to book via WhatsApp as they were not responsive.
- Before arriving, we asked via WhatsApp multiple times and called to ask how to get there because we did not have a car and they were unhelpful in helping us find a way there. Front desk staff seemed unresponsive at times. Again, this may be because they are overwhelmed, although it doesn’t seem like they are in charge of the WhatsApp communication.
- The restaurant staff was lovely but service hit or miss, some very attentive, some forgot to bring different items after asking several times
- our room and bathroom were really small. It didn’t bother us too much but it may bother other people.
Overall, we hope the hotel can tweak these things because this place it truly amazing."
Laura Forero
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Termales del Ruiz is by car, as public transport is limited. The drive takes about 1 to 1.5 hours and offers scenic mountain views. Some visitors recommend tours if you don't have a vehicle. 
Direct public transport to Termales del Ruiz is very limited. It's best to arrange private transportation, rent a car, or join an organized tour.
The road is generally paved for a significant portion, but the last 10 kilometers can be rough and winding. Driving carefully and following directions is advised.
While most cars can manage the road, a vehicle with good suspension is recommended for the final stretch. Some visitors mention checking vehicle entry restrictions for nearby parks based on license plates.
From Manizales, the journey typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours by car. If coming from further afield like Medellín, it can take up to 5.5 hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Day passes generally range from $50,000 to $70,000 COP per person. This usually includes access to the main thermal pools and walking trails.
The most scenic and exclusive thermal pools are reserved for hotel guests. Day visitors typically have access to the main thermal areas.
Operating hours can vary, but it's advisable to check in advance. Some sources suggest that after 10 PM, services may be limited.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially for weekends and holidays, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
A typical day pass includes access to the thermal waters, natural waterfalls, and the hummingbird trails.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can relax in the thermal pools, hike the hummingbird trails, enjoy the natural waterfalls, and take in the stunning views of the Nevado del Ruiz volcano.
Yes, families can enjoy the thermal pools and the nature trails. It's a great place for a relaxing getaway surrounded by nature.
The weather is typically fresh and cool due to the high altitude. It's advisable to bring layers of clothing.
Yes, guided tours, particularly for birdwatching and learning about the local flora and fauna, are highly recommended and can enhance your experience.
Take your time to soak in the different pools, especially during less crowded times like weekdays or after checkout for hotel guests.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The hotel offers dining with dishes ranging from $35,000 to $85,000 COP. Many visitors praise the delicious cuisine, with some calling the chef's creations magical.
While the food is generally delicious, some reviews suggest it can be a bit overpriced, possibly due to the remote location.
Information on bringing outside food is not widely available, but it's generally recommended to try the on-site dining to experience their offerings.
Specific dietary options are not detailed, but it's advisable to inquire with the restaurant staff upon arrival.
Along the route, particularly in areas like Vereda El Gallinazo, you might find local snacks like chorizo, morcilla, and plantains with cheese.
📸 📸 Photography
The thermal pools with mountain backdrops, the lush hummingbird trails, and the views of Nevado del Ruiz are all incredibly photogenic.
Hummingbirds are fast-moving, but the trails offer opportunities. Patience and a good zoom lens can help capture them.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage policies can vary and may be restricted in natural parks. It's best to check with the hotel or park authorities before flying.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both landscapes and wildlife. Waterproof protection for your gear might be useful near the thermal pools.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a family room if available, and pack layers of clothing as the mountain weather can be cool. While dining options are available, bringing some familiar snacks for picky eaters might be a good idea. The overall experience is one of relaxation and discovery, making it a memorable trip for all ages.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on transportation, consider joining a group tour if available, as this can often be more cost-effective than private car rental. Packing your own snacks and water can also help reduce on-site expenses. Focus on enjoying the natural beauty and the thermal waters, which are the main attractions.
❤️ Couples & Relaxation Seekers
Enjoy leisurely walks through the nature trails, soak in the pools under the stars, and savor delicious meals together. The remoteness of the location ensures a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Ecosystem of Termales del Ruiz
Beyond the birds, the area is characterized by its volcanic activity, which provides the natural thermal waters. The landscape is a dramatic mix of high-altitude páramo and cloud forest, offering breathtaking views of the Nevado del Ruiz volcano. This dramatic setting contributes to the 'fairy tale' like atmosphere that many visitors describe.
It's important to be aware of the environmental conditions. The altitude can affect some visitors, and the weather is typically cool and fresh. Respecting the natural environment by staying on marked trails and not disturbing wildlife is crucial for preserving this delicate ecosystem.
Navigating the Journey: Tips for Reaching Your Destination
+1For those without a car, organized tours are a popular and convenient option. These tours often combine a visit to Termales del Ruiz with other attractions in the region, simplifying logistics. If you're relying on public transport, be aware that direct routes are scarce, and you might need to combine buses with taxis or other local transport.
Some travelers have noted that getting clear directions or assistance with transportation from the hotel can be challenging via WhatsApp. It's advisable to confirm your travel plans well in advance and perhaps seek advice from local tourism offices or experienced travelers on forums if you encounter difficulties.
The Hotel Experience: Comforts Amidst Nature
Dining at the hotel is a significant part of the experience, with a focus on delicious, locally-inspired cuisine. While some find the prices a bit high, the quality and unique setting often justify the cost. The staff generally receives praise for their attentiveness and helpfulness, contributing to a memorable stay.
However, it's worth noting that some guests have experienced issues like loud construction noise during their stay, which can impact relaxation. Additionally, connectivity can be spotty, especially after 10 PM when internet services may become unreliable. Planning your activities and communication accordingly is advised.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit